Batteries often contain heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium or lead, which are on the EPA's list of persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic chemicals (PBTs) and are targeted as priority substances for waste minimization. Batteries make up a disproportionate amount of the toxic heavy metals contained in landfills even though they make up less than 1% of solid waste.

Purchase carbon credits that will fund renewable energy or tree planting initiatives to offset the carbon produced by car or air travel and home energy use. Learn more at www.carbonfund.org.

According to Carbonfund.org, the “carbon footprint” of the average American can be offset for as little as $99 per year.